Career and technical education (CTE) programs during high school can provide students with academic knowledge (e.g., career-oriented courses, dual enrollment), technical skills & certifications (e.g., industry-recognized credentials), as well as real-world work experience (e.g., career academies, internships, youth apprenticeships). Participation in high school CTE programs is associated with higher graduation rates and better employment outcomes (e.g., lower unemployment, higher earnings).
Senate Bill 265 and House Bill 101 would require the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) to provide the “means and capability” for high school students who are participating in CTE programs to learn about and apply for federal aid available under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). They also modify an existing CTE related requirement relating to the visiting scholars program.
Under both bills, teachers certified as visiting scholars would no longer need to be employed as part of a specific business education partnership between the district and employer.
